{"id":378470,"date":"2026-04-06T20:57:33","date_gmt":"2026-04-06T20:57:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/il\/378470\/"},"modified":"2026-04-06T20:57:33","modified_gmt":"2026-04-06T20:57:33","slug":"best-pruning-shears-of-2026-expert-recommended-options","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/il\/378470\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Pruning Shears of 2026: Expert-Recommended Options"},"content":{"rendered":"

With summer on the horizon, you\u2019re probably taking inventory of your gardening tool supply<\/a>, including hand pruners. Along with gardening shoes<\/a> and fertilizer<\/a>, pruning shears are one of the most important pieces of equipment for beginners and experienced gardeners alike: You can use them to clip away dead leaves and stems, harvest fresh fruits and veggies in your garden and more.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Pruning shears] make clean cuts, which is important because jagged cuts on plants can invite pests and diseases,\u201d says Julie Bawden-Davis, the professional gardener behind Healthy Houseplants<\/a>. \u201cClean cuts also look better, and plants will leaf out more quickly after pruning.\u201d<\/p>\n

To learn more about the types of pruning shears out there, we spoke to gardening experts about what to look for, and compiled a list of their recommendations to shop.<\/p>\n

Want more from NBC Select? Sign up<\/a> for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.<\/p>\n

The best pruning shears to shop<\/a><\/p>\n

Below are our experts\u2019 favorite anvil, bypass and ratchet pruners and loppers, all of which include recommended features like safety locks, high-quality blades and ergonomic handle designs.<\/p>\n

Best anvil pruners and loppers<\/a>\"Fiskars<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: anvil\u00a0| Cutting capacity: \u215d in.\u00a0| Blade material: steel\u00a0| Safety features: safety lock<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Sharp bladeSoft handleCorrosion-resistant<\/p>\n

Ashlie Thomas, a professional gardener who runs the blog The Mocha Gardener<\/a>, recommends this anvil pruner to \u201cclip through small stems, branches, and twigs that are no bigger than 1\/2 inch.\u201d These pruners have a corrosion-resistant coating on their blades for more durability, according to the brand. Plus, the ergonomically designed soft handle grip can accommodate both right- and left-handed users, as detailed on Fiskars\u2019 website.<\/p>\n

\"Gardena<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: anvil\u00a0| Cutting capacity: 1 in.\u00a0| Blade material: steel\u00a0| Safety features: safety lock<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Nonslip coatingFiberglass-reinforced handle<\/p>\n

This anvil pruner from Gardena, available in three sizes, also comes recommended by Thomas. It has a fiberglass-reinforced handle for durability and a nonslip coating on its blade for smooth cutting, according to the brand.<\/p>\n

\"Gardener\u2019s<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: anvil\u00a0| Cutting capacity: \u215d in.\u00a0| Blade material: steel\u00a0| Safety features: safety lock; plastic storage holster; nonslip handle<\/p>\n

Thomas also recommends these anvil pruners, which have a double-bevel blade that can cut through wood, and a rubber shock absorber that helps reduce stress on your hands and wrists, according to the brand. It also has a nonslip handle with a PVC coating and comes in two colors: orange and green. It\u2019s ideal for hard-to-cut, tough, dry wood and best for those with small hands, according to Gardener\u2019s Supply Company.<\/p>\n

\"Corona<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: anvil lopper\u00a0| Cutting capacity: 1.5 in.\u00a0| Blade material: steel\u00a0| Safety features: nonstick blades<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Long handlesResharpenable<\/p>\n

Something to note<\/p>\n

Best for experienced gardeners<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for a more forceful lopper with long handles for hard-to-reach spaces, Bawden-Davis recommends this option from Corona. Its 32-inch handles are made from durable fiberglass that have 8-inch nonslip foam grips on the ends for comfort and safety. It also comes with a nonstick coated steel blade that\u2019s resharpenable and replaceable<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Best bypass pruners and loppers<\/a>\"Okatsune<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: bypass\u00a0| Cutting capacity: 1 inch\u00a0| Blade material: steel\u00a0| Safety features: safety lock<\/p>\n

Something to note<\/p>\n

Best for experienced gardeners<\/p>\n

Made of high-quality Japanese Izumo Yasuki steel, these bypass pruners have a comfortable vinyl handle, and two-inch blades for a clean, precise cut, according to the brand. These pruners are \u201cgreat for cutting through fresh green stems and branches,\u201d Thomas says.<\/p>\n

\"Felco<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: bypass\u00a0| Cutting capacity: 1 inch\u00a0| Blade material: steel\u00a0| Safety features: sap groove; rubber shock absorber<\/p>\n

Something to note<\/p>\n

For people with larger hands<\/p>\n

These bypass pruners from Felco \u2014 another popular brand recommended by Bawden-Davis \u2014 have a uniquely shaped ergonomic handle and an angled head suitable for gardeners with larger hands, according to the brand. These also come with a sap groove and a rubber shock absorber that can reduce hand and wrist strain, as detailed on the brand\u2019s website.<\/p>\n

\"Corona<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: bypass\u00a0| Cutting capacity: \u00bd in., \u00be in. and 1 in.\u00a0| Blade material: steel\u00a0| Safety features: sap groove<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Multiple cutting sizesSelf-cleaning sap groove<\/p>\n

Bawden-Davis recommends these Corona pruners in part for their durability. \u201cYou don\u2019t want to fall in love with a pair of pruners only to have them fall apart after a couple of seasons,\u201d she says. They have forged steel blades and a self-cleaning sap groove. They come in multiple cutting sizes including \u00bd inch<\/a>, \u00be inch<\/a> and 1-inch and have red handles so you can easily spot them among your plants.<\/p>\n

\"Ars<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: bypass\u00a0| Cutting capacity: 1 in.\u00a0| Blade material: stainless steel\u00a0| Safety features: safety lock<\/p>\n

This pruner is lightweight \u2014 weighing just three ounces \u2014 and has sharp, elongated blades that are \u201cgreat for reaching through tight places to snip off your plants,\u201d according to Thomas. You can use them to harvest vegetables, fruits and fresh herbs, as well as clip flowers, she told us. They also have stainless steel<\/a> blades, which can \u201cminimize rusting over time,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n

\"Fiskars<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: bypass lopper\u00a0| Cutting capacity: 1.5 in.\u00a0| Blade material: steel\u00a0| Safety features: nonstick blades; shock absorbing bumpers<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Long handlesLow-friction coating<\/p>\n

Something to note<\/p>\n

Best for experienced gardeners<\/p>\n

This bypass lopper from Fiskars, which Bawden-Davis recommends, has 24-inch nonslip grip handles for more control, according to the brand. The blades also have a low-friction coating, which prevents them from getting sticky due to sap; it also allows for smoother cuts, according to the brand.<\/p>\n

\"Tabor<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: bypass lopper\u00a0| Cutting capacity: 1.75 in.\u00a0| Blade material: steel\u00a0| Safety features: shock absorbing grips; nonstick blades<\/p>\n

Something to note<\/p>\n

Best for experienced gardeners<\/p>\n

Another bypass lopper recommended by Bawden-Davis, this option has ergonomic and anti-shock rubberized grips for comfort. The lopper uses a compound action system, which relies on multiple pivot points to increase the force behind the blade for a more precise and powerful cut, according to Tabor Tools. It has a 30-inch-long design and replaceable blades, too.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: ratchet\u00a0| Cutting capacity: 1 inch\u00a0| Blade material: steel\u00a0| Safety features: safety lock; nonstick blades<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Detachable spongeLightweightThree-step ratchet<\/p>\n

These pruners have an ergonomic design, lightweight aluminum frame and a replaceable blade. These also have a three-step ratchet mechanism, which lets you minimize resistance and make more cuts with minimal effort, according to the brand. Additionally, these come with a detachable oiled sponge<\/a> to clean the blade.<\/p>\n

\"Corona<\/a><\/p>\n

Pruner type: ratchet\u00a0| Cutting capacity: \u00be inch\u00a0| Blade material: stainless steel\u00a0| Safety features: safety lock; nonstick blades<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Safety lockSuitable in right or left hand<\/p>\n

Something to note<\/p>\n

Nothing to note at this time<\/p>\n

This ratchet pruner from expert-favorite brand Corona has nonstick<\/a> blades for smooth cuts and easy cleaning. Its nonslip, molded handles are suitable for right- or left-handed use, though it\u2019s best for those with small to medium-sized hands, according to the brand.<\/p>\n

How I picked the best pruning shears<\/a><\/p>\n

Here are the factors we kept in mind while making this list:<\/p>\n

Type of pruning shears: There are four main types of pruning shears (also known as pruners or garden shears): anvil pruners, bypass pruners, ratchet pruners and loppers. We go more in depth on what makes each type unique and what they\u2019re best used for below.<\/p>\n

Blade quality and sharpness: Each pruner has steel or titanium-coated blades for durability. Keep in mind you\u2019ll need to regularly sharpen these with continuous use.<\/p>\n

Cutting capacity: This is the distance between the blades. Thin branches, small stems and twigs usually require a cutting capacity less than 1 inch, while thicker stems, branches and bushes require loppers \u2014 which are larger tools that require two hands \u2014 with a 1.5-inch cutting capacity or higher.<\/p>\n

Ergonomics: Look for pruning shears with an anti-slip cushioning or grip for safety and comfort.<\/p>\n

Safety features: Pruners will often have a safety lock that keeps it shut when not in use. Pruners may also have nonstick blades or a sap groove that can direct gunk away from the blades to prevent them from sticking together, which then reduces the amount of strain on your hands.<\/p>\n

What are the benefits of using pruning shears?<\/a><\/p>\n

Regular pruning is a necessary part of gardening to keep your plants attractive and healthy. Pruning shears are tools that allow you to cleanly cut off diseased or damaged stems (so you can drive away pests and diseases) and help prevent your plants from growing too full or long. Pruning shears can typically cut small branches, flowers, fruits and fresh herbs.<\/p>\n

Depending on where you are in the gardening season, pruning shears can also provide extra benefits. \u201cClipping off a few leaves to do some basic trimming at the beginning of the season is very helpful,\u201d Thomas says. For example, plants that produce a lot of branches like tomato plants need to be cut regularly so they have room to grow, according to Thomas.<\/p>\n

In the summer, you\u2019ll want to use your pruners to cut and harvest your leafy greens, and herbs here and there, according to Thomas. Around the fall when temperatures drop into the 60s and below, you can cut away plants that are going into dormancy or ones that have completed their plant life to allow fresh leaves and foliage to come through.<\/p>\n

What are the different types of pruning shears?<\/a><\/p>\n

Our experts list three main types of pruning shears to consider \u2014 anvil pruners, bypass pruners and ratchet pruners \u2014 each with their own unique benefits. Loppers, are garden shears similar to pruners but require two hands.<\/p>\n

Anvil pruners<\/a><\/p>\n

Anvil pruners have one blade that pushes down onto a piece of metal or plastic underneath. Since these tend to crush when they cut, they\u2019re best for cutting deadwood or making rough cuts on thicker, harder stems, according to our experts.<\/p>\n

Bypass pruners<\/a><\/p>\n

Bypass pruners have two different curved blades that pass each other as you cut \u2014 one of them is very sharp and the other is slightly more dull, according to Bawden-Davis. \u201cThese pruners can be used for a wide variety of tasks, including cutting soft green plant materials, as well as harder plant matter,\u201d she says. \u201cThey tend to be less bulky than anvil pruners, which allows for more precise cutting.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ratchet pruners<\/a><\/p>\n

Ratchet pruners are technically a subset of anvil pruners since they have one blade \u2014 however, they have a more \u201ccatch and hold\u201d mechanism where you\u2019re able to \u201cpress down slightly and then press it again a few times to cut all the way through,\u201d Thomas says. Ratchet pruners allow you to exert less force when cutting, which might be ideal for anyone with a hand injury or those who can\u2019t use a lot of force.<\/p>\n

Loppers<\/a><\/p>\n

To cut thicker branches, shrubs and bushes, you\u2019ll need a lopper. Loppers aren\u2019t technically pruning shears, though they resemble one another (and come in the same types listed above). Unlike a pruning shear, a lopper has a longer handle that requires you to use both hands. You can also use them to cut \u201chard-to-reach places such as elevated plant parts or in the interior of a plant where you might not want to reach your hands, as you could get hurt,\u201d Bawden-Davis says.<\/p>\n

How to shop for pruning shears<\/a><\/p>\n

In addition to buying the right type of pruner for your needs, our experts also recommend considering blade quality, ergonomic grip and safety features.<\/p>\n

What is cutting capacity?<\/a><\/p>\n

Cutting capacity refers to a pruner\u2019s ability to cut different types of plant materials, such as stems, branches and leaves of varying diameters. Pruners that you can hold and use with one hand are used for cutting relatively thin or small foliage. Pruners such as loppers, are meant to be used with both hands. \u201cThey are used to cut larger in diameter stems and branches and are good for getting into hard-to-reach places,\u201d says Bawden-Davis. Whatever your case may be, make sure your pruners have the capacity to cut different types of stems.<\/p>\n

How important is blade quality and sharpness?<\/a><\/p>\n

Blade quality is one of the most important factors to look for when shopping, according to our experts. In addition to cutting capacity, the quality and sharpness of the blades on pruning shears is equally important. This means that after using the shears over time, you\u2019ll have to sharpen the blades to keep them effective.<\/p>\n

If possible, hold the tool before purchasing. The pruning shear should have some heft and \u201cfeel solid in your hands,\u201d Bawden-Davis says.<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll also want to look for sharp blades. \u201cA sharp blade is very important because it\u2019s going to create that smooth, clean cut,\u201d Thomas says. \u201cIf you have a dull blade, then you\u2019re going to be hacking away at it and that\u2019s going to be a strain on your hands as well.\u201d She recommends using a pruner sharpener<\/a> or any other basic sharpening tool<\/a>.<\/p>\n

How important is ergonomics for pruning shears?<\/a><\/p>\n

Thomas recommends looking for models that have anti-slip cushioning or grip. \u201cYou need to be able to grip the pruner comfortably, especially being in the garden when you\u2019re around water and so many different types of substances,\u201d Thomas says. This also minimizes the chance of your shears slipping and injuring you.<\/p>\n

What safety features are important for pruning shears?<\/a><\/p>\n

Safety locks can keep a pruner shut when it\u2019s not in use to prevent injuries. Some shears also have a sap groove, which is a small detail on the lower blade that directs sap away from the blades to prevent them from sticking together.<\/p>\n

Thomas also recommends looking for pruners with handles (that you can attach to your wrist to help you keep track of them as you move around your garden), and bright-colored pruners (to ensure you\u2019re not losing them among your plants).<\/p>\n

Meet our gardening experts<\/a><\/p>\n

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and\/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.<\/p>\n

Julie Bawden-Davis is the professional gardener behind Healthy Houseplants<\/a> and is the author of several gardening books including \u201cSouthern California Fruit Gardening<\/a>\u201d and \u201cIndoor Gardening the Organic Way<\/a>.\u201dAshlie Thomas is a professional gardener and founder of The Mocha Gardener<\/a>.Why trust NBC Select?<\/a><\/p>\n

Mili Godio<\/a> is an editor at NBC Select who has covered a variety of gardening and outdoor articles including garden hoses<\/a>, indoor gardening kits<\/a> and riding lawn mowers<\/a>. For this article, she interviewed three gardening experts and researched dozens of pruners on the market that aligned with their guidance.<\/p>\n

Catch up on NBC Select\u2019s in-depth coverage of tech and tools<\/a>, wellness<\/a> and more, and follow us on Facebook<\/a>, Instagram<\/a>, Twitter<\/a> and TikTok<\/a> to stay up to date.<\/p>\n